Weather causing delays across Prince Edward Island

Schools across the Island are closed, flights have been cancelled and bridge restrictions anticipated

Snow plow

The snow has begun in Prince Edward Island where an anticipated blizzard has already created delays and cancellations across the province.

All Island schools, Holland College and UPEI are closed for the day, flights have been cancelled and even Waste Watch pickup is affected.

Provincial government offices are closing at 11:30 a.m. and The Guardian's business office is closed for the day as of 10 a.m.

Significant snowfall amounts of 15 to 30 cm, strong winds and blowing snow are all in today's Environment Canada forecast.

After last night's initial burst of snow, general conditions will deteriorate across the island during the afternoon, says the Weather Office. Blizzard conditions are forecast with winds gusting at times to 80 kilometres per hour.

Those winds may cause restrictions on the Confederation Bridge, which has issued an advisory that it expects winds in the range of 80 km/h, gusting to 100 km/h beginning at about noon. The winds will keep up until 6 a.m. Thursday.

The Charlottetown Airport has already had some of its flights cancelled for the day. The airport advises travellers to check with their airlines for flight statuses.

The Guardian newspaper delivery may be delayed today as our carriers navigate through the slippery and snow-covered roads.

Contractors for Waste Watch are attempting to collect in the Kings County area, but if trucks are pulled off the road the corporation will send another advisory.

Canada Post has also issued an advisory that mail delivery could be affected by today's weather. "Every attempt will be made to get all the mail out for delivery but, due to the severe weather, some addresses may not receive mail," states Canada Post. "Once the weather improves normal delivery will resume."

The letter carrier service also reminds homeowners and businesses to make sure the snow and ice is cleared from their sidewalks and walkways.